WRT54GS low output power - new out of box

Just received a new WRT54GS with the intention of loading it with Sveasoft firmware.

Before I did that I thought I would test it so powered it up and made sure radio was enabled.

Comparing it side to side with my Linksys WAP11 AP making measurements with Net Stumbler with both AP's on different RF channels I reckon the WRT54GS in around 20-30dB down on the WAP11 anywhere around the house.

Interestingly it came flashed with v2.09.1, I flashed it with the latest from the Linksys site which did seem to make some difference but it was still way off the WAP11. I even forced it to "B" only as my measurements were all taken with a Cisco "B" card in my laptop.

I am sending it back and getting a replacement but would be interested to hear if anyone has experienced similar.

I appreciate with sveasoft I can change the power but I thought as the difference is so huge there must be a fault with it?